Manhattan “”nick”” seems more obvious now

It did seem an obvious one. Manhattan Rain being (only) a hal brother to our Champion sire Redoute’s Choice meant that he should suit Danehill-line mares.

Firstly, he is significantly Danehill/Danzig free himself. Secondly, the Encosta De Lago/Redoute’s Choice cross has already produced Beneteau (Gr 3 winner and a close 3rd in the Gr 1 MRC Blue Diamond Stakes) as well as the Champion Musir (a Gr 1 winner in South Africa and UAE Derby winner on World Cup night). Additionally, the Encosta De Lago/Danehill cross has also produced 5 Stakeswinners including Champion Merlene De Lago. Thirdly, the Manhattan Rain cross over Danehill blood produces the same nick that begot Champion Redoute’s Choice himself, (i.e Danehill over Shantha’s Choice).

It seems like horsebreeding 101, doesn’t it? But will it work in practice?

Well, in fact it already has! Redoute’s Choice’s sister (yes full sister by Danehill Monsoon Wedding, who placed in the Gr 2 Magic Night Stakes at her first start has produced the very smart – now Stakeswinner, Precious Lorraine,(by Encosta De Lago) who was so impressive last Saturday in taking the Listed Oaklands Plate at Morphettville. Encosta De Lago, Shantha’s Choice and Danehill all bundled up in an impressive Stakeswinner. This David Hayes trained filly raced in Mr Yasseen’s famous, yellow, red and green silks and she seems certain to figure in the major spring fillies races.

So if you were thinking Manhattan Rain should suit mares with Danehill close up, you’re probably right – for lot’s of reasons!